Camping options near Center Lovell, Maine range from lakeside tent sites to four-season yurt accommodations. The region sits at elevations between 400-600 feet in the foothills of the White Mountains, with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F during peak camping season. Annual rainfall averages 45 inches, creating lush forests dominated by eastern white pine and northern hardwoods.
What to do
River tubing and kayaking: The Saco River provides calm waters for family paddling trips with rental options at several campgrounds. "Tube, swim or dip your feet it is a crystal clear, ice cold and refreshing way to spend the afternoon," notes a camper at Lakeside Pines Campground.
Mountain hiking trails: Pleasant Mountain offers moderate hiking within short driving distance of most camping areas. "Make sure to head not far down the road and climb up to the peak of Pleasant Mountain to get an incredible view of the entire area," recommends a visitor to On the Saco Family Campground.
Swimming in natural pools: Clear mountain streams create unique swimming opportunities beyond the lakes. At Toad Hill, visitors can access a remarkable natural feature - "Be sure to visit the emerald pool just across the Hiking trail bridge," shares a recent guest.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evenings offer prime opportunities to spot local wildlife including moose, black bears, and loons. "Loons loons everywhere. Lots of wildlife," reports a camper from Lakeside Pines Campground regarding the area's bird watching potential.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds in the region provide well-separated campsites. "Sites are private and clean. Grounds are well cared for and they offer float rentals for the river. Such a great experience!" explains a visitor to On the Saco Family Campground.
Multi-generational traditions: The region supports camping traditions spanning decades. At Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins, one reviewer notes, "We've been camping as a large group here every year for 12 years. Perfect spot to relax and get away from everything."
Year-round yurt options: Yurt camping near Center Lovell provides insulated shelter options beyond traditional summer seasons. "Nestled amidst the serene wilderness, the Off Grid Black Cap Yurt offers a secluded haven for those yearning to disconnect from the chaos of urban life," describes one visitor.
Sandy riverbanks: Natural sand deposits along river edges create beach-like environments. "We stayed down in the sandier sites on the river lots of shade and privacy - took a shuttle up with some kayaks - reasonably priced - and drifted back down 10 miles right to our site!" shares a camper from On the Saco.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Black bears are active in the region, requiring proper food storage. At Covered Bridge, one camper reports, "We spent 5 days and wished it was longer... There were 2 active bears while we were there. They circled our camper at night. It was incredible to watch. Of course we never left any food out!"
Limited cell service: Mobile reception is inconsistent throughout the area. "Very spotty Verizon cell coverage and no TMobile service at all. Better coverage for both carriers near the top of the boulder loop trail," warns a Covered Bridge camper.
Site flooding potential: Some campgrounds experience periodic flooding during heavy rainfall. "When it rains it floods the sites near the bathroom toward the beginning of the entrance," notes a visitor describing certain areas to avoid.
Reservation timing: The most desirable sites book months in advance, particularly waterfront locations. "We had a beautiful waterfront campsite. The lake is gorgeous. Rocks make direct access to the water from the site difficult, but there is a beach for water access not too far away," explains a Lakeside Pines visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation programs. "Played parents VS kids kickball and laughed so hard. They have a nice pool and lake. We tie dyed as an activity as a family and in turn had a great souvenir to bring home," shares a Papoose Pond Family Campground visitor.
Beach selection: Different beaches offer varying amenities and supervision levels. "All our neighbors were respectful of quiet time, so it wasn't an issue. Dogs are allowed in the campground and even on one of the two beaches. We went to the dog beach, which was clean and large," explains a visitor to Eastern Slope Camping Area.
Site location strategy: Choose sites strategically based on bathroom proximity and noise considerations. "We were on the pool/rec hall side and it definitely seemed less condensed over there than the pond side," suggests a recent Papoose Pond camper.
Evening entertainment: Some campgrounds provide scheduled evening activities. "They have weekly events that we love! Tuesday trivia, Wednesday beach party, Thursday dance party, and Friday karaoke - the latter being the most fun!" recommends a Papoose Pond visitor.
Tips from RVers
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads requiring careful navigation. "The road in for RVs is not terrific. There is about a 1/2 mile that is mostly one lane (with a drop off on one side) and if someone is coming decisions have to be made," warns a visitor to Covered Bridge.
Height restrictions: Historic covered bridges in the area may limit RV access. "To reach it from the Kanc, you'll need to cross the covered bridge where there's a height restriction. If your rig is >7'9" you'll need to enter via Passaconaway Rd via West Side Rd in Conway," explains another Covered Bridge camper.
Site selection for large rigs: Request specific sites suitable for larger vehicles when making reservations. "We had site Cove 31 which is listed as an RV site. This site was very large. With our 20 foot trailer we could still fit our Ford 150 and Subaru Forrester in front of it and still had room for another car," notes a Covered Bridge camper describing available space.
